Pricilla Mukokobi

Back on a Namibian stage since 2018, vocalist, songwriter and guitarist Shishani is sure to mesmerise local music lovers again with her distinctive sound that blends African rhythms, soul, jazz and pop.

The concert is scheduled for the Goethe Institut tonight under its Night Under the Stars banner under which Shishani has performed several times before.

Shishani told VIBEZ! fans can expect a dynamic mix of songs they know, including songs from her ‘Windhoek’ EP as well as new music and duets with wonderful local musicians like Nashilongweshipwe Mushaandja and Tonetic.

“I hope to share the beauty of diversity in stories and genres, and inspire musically. In the end, music is able to connect us beyond our seeming differences and celebrate each other in that,” she said.

Shishani added she enjoys performing in Namibia and spoke highly of the crowds and the energy she receives from sharing her music on stage.

“My last show was in 2018 with San musicians and my Namibian Tale quartet. Since then, work in Europe and Covid-19 prohibited me from spending time in Namibia; that’s why I’m so happy to finally be able to perform at home again as well,” she said, adding Namibia has given her the most inspiring experiences on a personal, spiritual or creative level.

Born in Namibia, raised in Belgium and living in the Netherlands as well as having lived and worked on both continents, her music is a reflection of her unique cultural background and worldly experiences.

“I think being an ‘insider’ and ‘outsider’ at the same time has given me different perspectives on what it means to belong somewhere, to be part of many cultures and how to create a sense of home in different ways. Music has been my gateway through life, working with people from all walks of life and all parts of the world. All these different influences have found their way into my music.”

Also an anthropologist and musicologist, Shishani’s popular song ‘Minority’ was nominated for two awards at the Namibian Annual Music Awards in 2012 – the same year she won the ‘Last Band Standing’ competition in Namibia. She is once again geared to deliver a memorable and inspiring performance through her soulful voice and powerful lyrics.

“My music is truly a blend of the multiple influences in my life. It’s been a beautiful journey finding a personal and creative way to blend musical elements, languages and genres in my own way. I feel it’s a journey that’s never done, and I see my identity as fluid in all senses.

“That means my creative output will never be just one genre or style, and it will keep evolving as we do as human beings. But I must say Namibia has given me the most inspiring experiences on a personal, spiritual and creative level. The love and support I’ve received is something I carry through wherever I go, and people often become fascinated with the country after concerts, so I’m happy to be able to do that abroad,” she narrated.

Acknowledging the lack of structural support to take their art further despite the passion and drive among Namibian artists, Shishani advised that collaborating with other artists is a way to overcome this challenge and bring more exposure to the rich and diverse artistic culture of Namibia.

Some of her collaborations with Namibian artists include the Spoken Word scene, which she described as among the most talented and powerful she has ever experienced, as well as a list of inspiring artists, including Lize Ehler, Keith Vries, Nesindano Namises, Erna Chimu, Jana von Hase, Jackson Wahengo, Tonetic, Playshis the Poet, Nashilongweshipwe Mushaandja, Namib Yaantu, Tulimelila Shityuwete and Livinge Dennis.

Meanwhile, Shishani has recorded a new album and is looking for partners to create a release plan for it.

Other than that, she is part of an inspiring research project around the Ngoma drums of Namibia that will be presented in February next year.

Asked what she hopes the audience will take away from her performance, she said: “I hope for a sense of connection, love and inspiration”.

To witness her dynamic and soulful performances, grab a ticket for N$50 at the venue on Fidel Castro Street in the capital.

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